Learning. He who invades the domain of knowledge. and Latter-day Saints
|
|
- Corey Bond
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Learning and Latter-day Saints By Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles And Kristen M. Oaks The acquisition of knowledge is a lifelong, sacred activity, pleasing to our Father in Heaven and favored by His servants. He who invades the domain of knowledge must approach it as Moses came to the burning bush; he stands on holy ground; he would acquire things sacred, said President J. Reuben Clark Jr. ( ), a member of the First Presidency, speaking at the inauguration of a new president of Brigham Young University. We must come to this quest of truth in all regions of human knowledge whatsoever, not only in reverence, but with a spirit of worship. 1 As Latter-day Saints we believe in education, and we have a philosophy about how and why we should pursue it. Our religious faith teaches us that we should seek learning by the Spirit and that we have a stewardship to use our knowledge for the benefit of mankind. Our Quest for Truth [Our] religion... prompts [us] to search diligently after knowledge, taught President Brigham Young ( ). There is no other people in existence more eager to see, hear, learn and understand truth. 2 Our quest for truth should be as broad as our life s activities and as deep as our circumstances permit. A learned Latter-day Saint should seek to understand the important religious, physical, social, and political problems of the day. The more knowledge we have of heavenly laws and earthly things, the greater influence we can exert for 26
2 Left: Photograph by Craig Dimond; right: photo illustrations by John Luke, Matthew Reier, and Christina Smith good on those around us and the safer we will be from scurrilous and evil influences that may confuse and destroy us. In our quest for truth, we need to seek the help of our loving Heavenly Father. His Spirit can direct and intensify our efforts to learn and magnify our ability to assimilate truth. This learning with the Spirit is not confined to classrooms or preparation for school examinations. It applies to everything we do in life and every place we do it at home, at work, and at church. As we seek to receive and apply the guidance of the Spirit in a world driven by the trends and issues of the day, we are confronted by an avalanche of often erroneous and trivial information served up by modern technology. We risk becoming what one observer called pancake people spread wide and thin as we connect with that vast network of information accessed by the mere touch of a button. 3 We are also bombarded by popular talk show hosts, television psychologists, fashion magazines, and media commentators, whose skewed values and questionable practices can drive our opinions and influence our behavior. For example, President Spencer W. Kimball ( ) said, There has never been a time in the world when the role of [women and men] has been more confused. 4 Liahona APRIL
3 In this circumstance, confusion, discouragement, or selfdoubt may begin to erode our faith and turn us away from the Savior and from building His kingdom on earth. If we focus our decisions on trends and worldly directions, we will be tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive (Ephesians 4:14). Not influenced by popular opinion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches principles. The difference is profound. Trends, fashion, and pop ideology are fleeting and ephemeral. Principles serve as anchors of security, direction, and truth. If we fix our ideals and direction on doctrine and principles, such as faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and following the prophet, we will have a totally reliable, unchanging guide for our life s decisions. 5 We need not fear. President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, taught: The Lord knows both what He will need you to do and what you will need to know. He is kind and He is all-knowing. So you can with confidence expect that He has prepared opportunities for you to learn in preparation for the service you will give. You will not recognize those opportunities perfectly.... But when you put the spiritual things first in your life, you will be blessed to feel directed toward certain learning, and you will be motivated to work harder. 6 Personal Worthiness Our efforts to learn must be combined with personal worthiness for us to receive the guidance of the Holy Ghost. We must avoid sexual impurity, pornography, and addictions as well as negative feelings against others or ourselves. Sin drives out the Spirit of the Lord, and when that happens, the special illumination of the Spirit is gone and the lamp of learning flickers. In modern revelation we have a promise that if our eye be single to the glory of God, which includes personal worthiness, our whole [body] shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in [us]; and that body which is filled with light comprehendeth all things (D&C 88:67). We can verify this eternal principle by immediate personal experience. Recall a time when you were resentful, contentious, or quarrelsome. Could you study effectively? Did you receive any enlightenment during that period? Sin and anger darken the mind. They produce a condition opposite to the light and truth that characterize intelligence, which is the glory of God (see D&C 93:36). Repentance, which can cleanse us from sin through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, is therefore an essential step along the path of learning for all who seek light and truth through the teaching power of the Holy Ghost. We are imperfect beings, but each of us can strive to be more worthy of the companionship of the Spirit, which will magnify our personal discernment and prepare us to better defend the truth, to withstand social pressures, and to make positive contributions. Education In our educational choices we should prepare to support ourselves and those who may become dependent upon us. It is necessary that we have marketable skills. Education is mandatory to personal security and well-being. Our Heavenly Father expects us to use our agency and inspiration to examine ourselves and our abilities and decide the educational course we should follow. This is especially important for young people who have finished high school and missionary service and now face decisions about further schooling and employment. Since the choices facing men and women can be quite different, Photo illustrations by Robert Casey, Marina Lukach, and Craig Dimond 28
4 we begin by drawing on our contrasting experiences, believing them to be typical of many Latter-day Saints. Elder Oaks: Like those of most young men, my formal educational pursuits were intense, continuous, and motivated by the need to qualify myself to support a family. College was followed by graduate school. This was financed by part-time work and borrowing to be repaid from the increased earning capacity acquired from the education. Along the way I married, and we began to have children. The support of a wife and the responsibility of a growing family enhanced my performance in school and gave me powerful motivation to graduate and go forward with my life s work. With the conclusion of my formal education, I devoted some of my newfound discretionary time to continuing education in my profession and to additional reading in longdesired areas of Church history and general education. Sister Oaks: Women s educational paths and experiences are often very different from men s. I grew up in a time when women seemed to have only two options to support themselves teaching and nursing. My problem was that I never considered either one of them. Supporting myself financially was something I did not consider possible or necessary. I loved to learn, and I knew how to work; in fact, I loved to work. I had many summer jobs, and I did well in school. When I awoke to the fact that I needed to support myself fully, I was afraid, almost paralyzed, by the unforeseen challenges that seemed to loom ahead for me. I had no real job skills. My studies in liberal arts had fed my soul, but now I needed to feed my pocketbook. I attended graduate school to learn skills to support myself. I loved every minute of learning and encountered not only new ideas but discovered my own capabilities. Where I had felt shy and somewhat vulnerable, I now felt capable and competent to face life on my own. Learning with the Spirit is not confined to classrooms or preparation for school examinations. It applies to everything we do in life and every place we do it at home, at work, and at church. Crossroads We know that nothing is more perplexing than not knowing what to do with your future, but nothing is more personally rewarding than discovering your own abilities. Read your patriarchal blessing, consider your natural aptitudes and talents, and go forward. Take the first step, and doors will open. For example, when Sister Oaks set out in English literature, she never dreamed it would take her to a publishing house in Boston. When Elder Oaks studied accounting, he never supposed it would take him Liahona APRIL
5 An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. to legal education, to Brigham Young University, and then to the Utah Supreme Court. With the Lord, all things work together for [our] good (Romans 8:28), and the education we receive comes in incremental steps as our lives unfold before us. We must choose our learning with care because learning has an eternal shelf life, and whatever useful knowledge or wisdom or principle of intelligence we acquire in this life will rise with us in the resurrection (D&C 130:18). It is disturbing that so many, especially women, have self-doubts and question their ability to succeed. Addressing female students studying math, science, and engineering in March 2005, BYU president Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. of the Seventy said: One of your professors has commented to me... that some of you have less confidence in your abilities and prospects than do your male peers, even when the evidence may suggest that this is not justified. You do need to recognize your talents, skills, aptitudes, and strengths and not be confused about the gifts that God has given you. 7 Women especially may receive negative feedback when they aspire to professional occupations. A young sister entering her late 20s and faced with supporting herself wrote for advice. She confided that she had approached an ecclesiastical authority about studying law and he had discouraged her. We do not know her abilities or her limitations; the counsel she received may have been based on them or on inspiration peculiar to her circumstances. But her determination could be felt through the pages of her letter, and it was clear that she should be advised to reach the full level of her potential. President Thomas S. Monson, as part of his message during the general Relief Society meeting held on September 29, 2007, told women: Do not pray for tasks equal to your abilities, but pray for abilities equal to your tasks. Then the performance of your tasks will be no miracle, but you will be the miracle. 8 We caution that with the need to finish school and establish financial security, men or women might be tempted to assign marriage a low priority. It is eternally shortsighted to pursue a professional course that makes one unavailable for marriage, an eternal value, because it does not fit into professional timing, a worldly value. A friend accompanied her daughter to look at graduate schools in the eastern United States. Her highly motivated and 30
6 talented daughter knew that by attending the number-one school of her choice, she would incur enormous debts for her education. Often the best education is worth paying for, but in this case, her daughter prayed and felt that while a high level of debt might not prevent her from marrying, it might eventually prevent her from stopping work so she could stay home with her children. Be wise. Each of us is different. If you seek His counsel, the Lord will let you know what is best for you. Most important, we have the obligation to continue our spiritual education by studying the scriptures and Church literature and by attending church and the temple. Feasting on the words of life will enrich us, increase our ability to teach those we love, and prepare us for eternal life. The ultimate goal of an education is to make us better parents and servants in the kingdom. In the long run it is the growth, knowledge, and wisdom we achieve that Photo illustrations by Matthew Reier, Craig Dimond, and Christina Smith Hunger to Learn Elder Jay E. Jensen of the Presidency of the Seventy has taught that we always need to keep a learning, growing edge. 9 That edge must be honed by a desire to learn, directed by eternal priorities. Beyond increasing our occupational qualifications, we should desire to learn how to become more emotionally fulfilled, more skilled in our personal relationships, and better parents and citizens. There are few things more fulfilling and fun than learning something new. Great happiness, satisfaction, and financial rewards come from this. An education is not limited to formal study. Lifelong learning can increase our ability to appreciate and relish the workings and beauty of the world around us. This kind of learning goes well beyond books and a selective use of new technology, such as the Internet. It includes artistic endeavors. It also includes experiences with people and places: conversations with friends, visits to museums and concerts, and opportunities for service. We should expand ourselves and enjoy the journey. We may have to struggle to achieve our goals, but our struggles may yield as much growth as our learning. The strengths we develop in overcoming challenges will be with us in the eternities to come. We should not envy those whose financial or intellectual resources make it easy. The stuff of growth was never made of ease, and persons who have it easy will need to experience their growth with other sacrifices or forego the advancement that is the purpose of life. enlarges our souls and prepares us for eternity, not the marks on college transcripts. The things of the Spirit are the things that are eternal, and our family relationships, sealed by the power of the priesthood, are the ultimate fruits of the Spirit. Education is a gift from God; it is a cornerstone of our religion when we use it to benefit others. Notes 1. J. Reuben Clark Jr., Charge to President Howard S. McDonald, Improvement Era, Jan. 1946, Remarks by President Brigham Young, Deseret News, Mar. 14, 1860, Richard Foreman, quoted in Nicholas Carr, Is Google Making Us Stupid? Atlantic Monthly, July/Aug. 2008, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball (Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society course of study, 2006), The substance of this paragraph and several other paragraphs later in the article is taken from Kristen M. Oaks, A Single Voice (2008). 6. Henry B. Eyring, Education for Real Life, Ensign, Oct. 2002, Cecil O. Samuelson Jr., What Will Be Relevant, unpublished talk. 8. Thomas S. Monson, Three Goals to Guide You, Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2007, Letter from Jay E. Jensen to Dallin H. Oaks, dated Apr. 23, Liahona APRIL
LEARNING FOR THE WHOLE SOUL
By Elder Kim B. Clark Of the Seventy Commissioner of the Church Educational System LEARNING FOR THE WHOLE SOUL This message is for the youth and young adults in the Lord s Church. Many years ago I had
More informationVirtual Lead Student Lesson Plan L04: Lifelong Learning
Virtual Lead Student Lesson Plan L04: Lifelong Learning Objectives By the end of the gathering, students will be able to: Identify how to apply principles of faith as they strive to be a lifelong learner.
More informationLEARNING FOR THE WHOLE SOUL
By Elder Kim B. Clark Of the Seventy Commissioner of the Church Educational System LEARNING FOR THE WHOLE SOUL This message is for the youth and young adults in the Lord s Church. Many years ago I had
More informationEach young woman will seek to know and fulfill her purpose in life.
Our Purpose in Life Lesson 7 OBJECTIVE Each young woman will seek to know and fulfill her purpose in life. PREPARATION 1. Prepare a copy for each young woman of the five ways we can learn about our purpose
More informationInstitute Elevate Learning Experience
Institute Elevate Learning Experience Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake City, Utah Comments and corrections are appreciated. Please send them, including errors, to:
More informationMy fellow students: I have spoken to BYU
Counsel for Students DALLIN H. OAKS My fellow students: I have spoken to BYU audiences on many occasions, but never on one like this. I am sorry that President Kimball is unable to speak to you today.
More informationIfind it increasingly difficult to speak to you
To Acquire Knowledge and the Strength to Use It Wisely RICHARD G. SCOTT Ifind it increasingly difficult to speak to you who qualify in worthiness, testimony, and personal capacity to be here on this singular
More informationLove VERSUS LUST. Defining Lust. By Joshua J. Perkey Church Magazines. October
Love VERSUS LUST By Joshua J. Perkey Church Magazines Lust. It certainly is an ugly word. Most of us don t want to think about it, much less learn about it. The term invokes a sleazy feeling, something
More informationBefore he became a member of the Church, Peter SELF-RELIANT LET US BE AND INDEPENDENT
LET US BE SELF-RELIANT AND INDEPENDENT As Latter-day Saints throughout the world embrace the principles and doctrines of the Church s self-reliance initiative, they are reaping the blessings of greater
More information1Increase Faith and Personal Righteousness.
1Increase Faith and Personal Righteousness. The first-sunday lesson gives us an opportunity to turn to the scriptures for the doctrines that will help us meet the challenges of the latter days. By Julie
More informationMORTALITY. Reality Number 1: Work helps us develop the qualities and attributes essential for eternal life.
By Elder Paul B. Pieper Of the Seventy Revealed Realities of MORTALITY Each person is placed on the earth in unique circumstances. Despite our uniqueness, the Lord has revealed truths about the purposes
More informationSafeguards for Using Technology. Along with your companion and other missionaries, prayerfully commit to:
Safeguards for Using Technology Along with your companion and other missionaries, prayerfully commit to: Safeguards for Using Technology Introduction... 1 Safeguards for Using Technology... 3 Safeguard
More informationReading from the Guidebook: Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society, p. 4. Curriculum, p. 5
TRAINING GUIDE Introducing the New Curriculum (Pilot Test) Preparing to introduce the new curriculum is an opportunity to prayerfully study and ponder the resources listed below. Under the inspiration
More informationCome, Follow Me LIVING, LEARNING, AND TEACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST. For Young Women and Relief Society
Come, Follow Me LIVING, LEARNING, AND TEACHING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST For Young Women and Relief Society Pilot Test for Come, Follow Me: Living, Learning, and Teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for
More informationPriesthood Authority in the Family and the Church
Priesthood Authority in the Family and the Church Dallin H. Oaks Dallin H. Oaks was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints when this conference
More informationBy Elder Kent D. Watson Of the Seventy. Whither Shall
By Elder Kent D. Watson Of the Seventy Whither Shall A few years ago, I served as a volunteer in the employment center at BYU Hawaii and taught a class in accounting. One of my favorite students was named
More informationAaronic Priesthood. Resource Guide Supplemental Materials for Manual 3
Aaronic Priesthood Resource Guide 2011 Supplemental Materials for Manual 3 Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake City, Utah 2010 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights
More informationI ve come to recognize as
CONNECTING Daughters of God WITH HIS Priesthood Power By Barbara Morgan Gardner Associate Professor of Church History and Doctrine, Brigham Young University PHOTOGRAPH OF WOMAN LOOKING TOWARD THE OAKLAND
More informationBefore he became a member of the Church, Peter SELF-RELIANT LET US BE AND INDEPENDENT
LET US BE SELF-RELIANT AND INDEPENDENT As Latter-day Saints throughout the world embrace the principles and doctrines of the Church s self-reliance initiative, they are reaping the blessings of greater
More informationILLUSTRATIONS BY JULIE ROGERS. 34 Liahona
34 Liahona ILLUSTRATIONS BY JULIE ROGERS GATHERED TOGETHER in My Name The Lord has appointed ward and branch councils to help us minister in love and unity. By Jakob R. Jones Not long ago I attended a
More informationRECOVERING FROM THE TRAP OF PORNOGRAPHY. All of us must learn to respond appropriately to media with sexual content.
By Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles RECOVERING FROM THE TRAP OF PORNOGRAPHY All of us must learn to respond appropriately to media with sexual content. A decade ago I spoke in
More informationwill bring us protection and will be a refuge against the temptations, evil, and other dangers that we face today.
THE Gospel of Jesus Christ A REFUGE AND PROTECTION By Getulio Walter Jagher e Silva Seminaries and Institutes The Lord wants to protect His people. During a time of great persecution in the Church, He
More informationWhat can I learn from living prophets and apostles?
from living prophets and apostles? from living prophets and apostles? from living prophets and apostles? The living prophets and apostles receive revelation to guide the Church, and their counsel reflects
More informationLaws and Ordinances. Prepare to Teach. Learn about the Laws, Ordinances, and Commitments. Notes
3: Study What and Do I Teach Study and Teach? Lesson 5: 1998 Del Parson. Do not copy. Prepare to Teach This lesson works much like lesson 4. The approach you take should be determined by the needs, interests,
More informationThe Redeeming and Strengthening Power of the Savior s. Atonement
50 Ensign The Redeeming and Strengthening Power of the Savior s Atonement By Elder Kim B. Clark Of the Seventy NOT MY WILL, BUT THINE, BE DONE, BY HARRY ANDERSON, COURTESY OF PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION,
More informationMore than 20 years ago, I completed my
By Elder C. Scott Grow Of the Seventy PROPHETIC PRINCIPLES OF FAITHFULNESS More than 20 years ago, I completed my service as a mission president in South America. My wife, Rhonda, and I have seen great
More informationLife s Trials. Learning. through By Larry Richman
The trials of this life will ultimately lead to joy if we patiently trust in God s plan and discover how to use adversity to grow stronger. Learning Life s Trials through By Larry Richman I ve learned
More informationPriesthood: A Sacred Trust to Be Used for the Benefit of Men, Women, and Children Linda K. Burton Relief Society General President
Priesthood: A Sacred Trust to Be Used for the Benefit of Men, Women, and Children Linda K. Burton Relief Society General President This address was given Friday, May 3, 2013 at the BYU Women s Conference
More informationBecome What God Wants You to Be
YOUNG ADULTS By Stephen W. Owen Young Men General President Become What God Wants You to Be During my first semester at college 40 years ago, I decided to read the Book of Mormon cover to cover. Somehow,
More informationTHE CHURCH OF JESUS GHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS OFFICE OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY 47 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE STREET, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
THE CHURCH OF JESUS GHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS OFFICE OF THE FIRST PRESIDENCY 47 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE STREET, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 84150-1200 April 2, 2018 To: General Authorities; General Auxiliary Presidencies;
More informationWe Need Never Feel Alone
We Need Never Feel Alone That they may always have His Spirit to be with them (D&C 20: 77) As women, we have an innate desire to surround ourselves with loved ones; family, friends, fellow church members
More informationSelf-Reliance. and Gospel Learning
Self-Reliance and Gospel Learning By David B. Marsh Priesthood and Family Department of the Church A kindergarten teacher was once observing her class of children while they drew. As she walked around
More informationRECOVERING FROM THE TRAP OF PORNOGRAPHY. All of us must learn to respond appropriately to media with sexual content.
By Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles RECOVERING FROM THE TRAP OF PORNOGRAPHY All of us must learn to respond appropriately to media with sexual content. A decade ago I spoke in
More informationCome, Follow Me. Sunday School 1. Learning Resources for Youth
Come, Follow Me Sunday School 1 Learning Resources for Youth teaching and learning for conversion Sunday School January June 2013 About this Manual The lessons in this manual are organized into units that
More informationOur Search for Truth
C H A P T E R 1 0 Our Search for Truth It is a requirement that is made of us, as members of this Church, to make ourselves familiar with that which the Lord has revealed, that we may not be led astray....
More informationConnect Four: Making Gospel Connections in the Classroom
Connect Four: Making Gospel Connections in the Classroom AMANDA CHRISTENSEN Department of Animal & Food Science Brigham Young University-Idaho has a unique charge of building disciple leaders. The University
More informationFortified by Family and Friends. June
a General Authority that President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency, suggested we make a list of 20 people who had a positive impact on our lives. I think everyone could benefit
More informationTo Learn and To Teach More Effectively BYU Campus Education Week August 21, 2007
To Learn and To Teach More Effectively BYU Campus Education Week August 21, 2007 Elder Richard G. Scott, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles With you I sense the excitement and anticipation of inspiring
More informationMy wonderful brothers and sisters,
Following Heavenly Father s Plan LARRY M. GIBSON My wonderful brothers and sisters, I consider it a sacred privilege to be with you. Please know that since receiving this invitation you have been in my
More informationOur Heavenly Family. Chapter 2
Our Heavenly Family Chapter 2 We Are Children of Our Heavenly Father What do scriptures and latter-day prophets teach us about our relationship to God? God is not only our Ruler and Creator; He is also
More informationThe Saga of Revelation: The
The Saga of Revelation: The Why is an understanding of the history of the Seventy important today? Because it provides a pattern for how the Lord reveals His will for His Church and for our individual
More informationTeaching. Learning. Introduction. to religious educators, and from conference proceedings and publications at Brigham Young University.
In a remarkable revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in November 1831, the Lord said, What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass
More informationLEADER S GUIDE FOR THE SELF-RELIANCE INITIATIVE
LEADER S GUIDE FOR THE SELF-RELIANCE INITIATIVE i FOREWORD TO STAKE AND WARD LEADERS Many Church members can improve their self-reliance, which is the ability, commitment, and effort to provide the spiritual
More information32. Family 2: Teaching Children Financial Responsibility
32. Family 2: Teaching Children Financial Responsibility Introduction To a large degree, parents hold the destiny of their children in their hands. The lessons they teach both by precept and example may
More informationThe Power of Personal Prayer
Lesson 9 The Power of Personal Prayer Purpose To assure class members that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers and to encourage them to establish a regular pattern of sincere personal prayer. Preparation
More informationConcluding Remarks Seminar for New Mission Presidents. Elder Dallin H. Oaks. Summaries Thursday. Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
2016 Seminar for New Mission Presidents Concluding Remarks Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles June 25, 2016 I feel privileged to speak at this unusually inspiring seminar for new
More informationChoices. Elder Russell M. Nelson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Ensign, Nov. 1990, pp
Choices Elder Russell M. Nelson Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Ensign, Nov. 1990, pp. 73-75 PDF Version Not long ago a beautiful young mother asked me for guidance with a very difficult decision
More informationMOVE FORWARD WITH FAITH. May we stay out of roundabouts and move forward with faith in God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.
By Elder Brent H. Nielson Of the Seventy MOVE FORWARD WITH FAITH May we stay out of roundabouts and move forward with faith in God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. A few years ago my wife, Marcia,
More informationThe Gifts of a Broken Heart
The Gifts of a Broken Heart The pain in my broken heart was softened as spiritual gifts helped me heal. By Kim Webb Reid I met Daniel on the school playground in sixth grade. After years of friendship,
More informationYOU R E IN V I T E D AN OVERVIEW OF SELF-RELIANCE SERVICES FOR PRIESTHOOD LEADERS OVERVIEW
YOU R E IN V I T E D AN OF SELF-RELIANCE SERVICES FOR PRIESTHOOD LEADERS I It has always been a cardinal teaching with the Latter-day Saints, that a religion which has not the power to save people temporally
More informationWhat will I do without a
A New Direction for Melchizedek Priesthood and Relief Society Sunday Meetings The new curriculum brings exciting changes to our Sunday meetings that build on Teaching in the Savior s Way. Our first-sunday
More informationGospel. Culture. In the famous movie The African Queen, The
This article is excerpted from an address delivered during a regional stake and district conference broadcast to Africa on November 21, 2010. Gospel The Culture In the famous movie The African Queen, two
More informationBlessings of Chastity
26 Blessings of Chastity OBJECTIVE Each young man will understand that he must guard the sacred power of procreation and not abuse it. PREPARATION 1. Prayerfully study Exodus 20:14; Matthew 5:27 28; 26:41;
More informationThe goal of every gospel teacher every parent, every formally called teacher, every
Teaching in the Savior s Way The goal of every gospel teacher every parent, every formally called teacher, every home teacher and visiting teacher, and every follower of Christ is to teach the pure doctrine
More informationYoung Church-Service. Missionary Resource Book
Young Church-Service Missionary Resource Book Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Salt Lake City, Utah 2014, 2017 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in
More informationTo give class members a sense of their infinite worth.
The Worth of a Soul Lesson 32 Purpose To give class members a sense of their infinite worth. Preparation 1. Prayerfully study Ether 12:27; Doctrine and Covenants 18:10; 46:11 26; Moses 1:39. 2. For each
More informationLesson Manual # 13: Begin With The End In Mind Career Exploration
Lesson Manual # 13: Begin With The End In Mind Career Exploration Assignments Read various LDS quotes on Careers & Education Access and complete the TypeFocus Assessment. Complete parts I and II. Complete
More informationSTAND BY MY SERVANT. By Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. Served as a member of the Seventy from 1994 to Ensign
By Elder Cecil O. Samuelson Jr. Served as a member of the Seventy from 1994 to 2011 STAND BY MY SERVANT How grateful we should be that we are allowed to stand by Joseph with our own actions and testimonies
More informationThe Holy Priesthood for the Blessing of God s Children
C H A P T E R 5 The Holy Priesthood for the Blessing of God s Children The priesthood is the authority of God. Those who hold the priesthood must be worthy and use it to bless others. From the Life of
More informationPROMISED BLESSINGS. In the Book of Mormon, the prophet FOUR TOOLS THAT BRING. Defend yourself against Satan with these four tools.
FOUR TOOLS THAT BRING PROMISED BLESSINGS Defend yourself against Satan with these four tools. In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Helaman teaches his sons that they must build their spiritual foundation
More informationTemple. You notice it most when you look in their. Choose the
Temple Choose the That s the advice from an increasing number of Latter-day Saints in India, who know that blessings come from going to the house of the Lord. By Richard M. Romney Church Magazines You
More informationPRIESTHOOD Duties. You may be a brand new deacon, Your AARONIC. You have been ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood. What are you supposed to do now?
Your AARONIC PRIESTHOOD Duties You have been ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood. What are you supposed to do now? By Paul VanDenBerghe Church Magazines You may be a brand new deacon, newly ordained last
More informationAlthough Deseret Industries opened its first thrift
Founded in 1938, Deseret Industries is now in its 75th year of helping individuals become more self-reliant and grow into their best selves. By Ryan Carr Church Magazines Although Deseret Industries opened
More informationBefore the Saints left Nauvoo, priesthood leaders covenanted to help all the Saints who wanted to join the emigration.
Before the Saints left Nauvoo, priesthood leaders covenanted to help all the Saints who wanted to join the emigration. 194 C H A P T E R 1 6 That We May Become One The voice of the Almighty called us out
More informationTHE FAMILY IS CENTRAL
THE FAMILY IS CENTRAL TO THE CREATOR S PLAN LESSON 1 Purpose To emphasize the eternal importance of the family and to help participants know what they need to do to receive the full benefit of the Marriage
More informationLight. Is it okay to have questions about the gospel? Of course. That is how we gain HOLD ON TO THE
HOLD ON Light TO THE By LaRene Porter Gaunt Church Magazines Cling to the light of your testimony while seeking answers to your questions and doubts. The Holy Ghost is the key. Is it okay to have questions
More informationFollowing the Savior s Example
Photo illustration by Matthew Reier by the Comforter, in the Spirit of truth, doth he preach it by the Spirit of truth or some other way? And if it be by some other way it is not of God (D&C 50:17 18).
More informationLeader Guide SELF-RELIANCE
FOREWORD This leader guide has been developed to assist you in your role of helping members help themselves toward self-reliance. There are great needs among us. Many lack the ability to provide the spiritual
More informationThings Which Matter Most Must Never Be at the Mercy of Things Which Matter Least Silvia H. Allred
Things Which Matter Most Must Never Be at the Mercy of Things Which Matter Least Silvia H. Allred This address was given Friday, April 29, 2011 at the BYU Women s Conference 2011 by Brigham Young University
More informationBloom Where You re Planted
Bloom Where You re Planted I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10) Flowers can bloom and thrive in a variety of circumstances likewise, our lives
More informationBooks, Women, and the Church
Books, Women, and the Church Kirtland Temple Circa 1934. Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Historic American Buildings Survey, HABS: OHIO,43-KIRT,1-12 D&C 88 (109) Teach ye diligently
More informationTo encourage class members to be receptive to the influence of the Holy Ghost and to draw nearer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Lesson 24 This Is Life Eternal John 16 17 Purpose To encourage class members to be receptive to the influence of the Holy Ghost and to draw nearer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Preparation 1. Read,
More informationMEN AND WOMEN AND PRIESTHOOD POWER
By Elder M. Russell Ballard Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles MEN AND WOMEN AND PRIESTHOOD POWER Let us never forget that we are the sons and daughters of God, equal in His sight with differing responsibilities
More informationThe True and Living Church
The True and Living Church PRESIDENT HENRY B. EYRING First Counselor in the First Presidency The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true, and it lives on. As we sustain Thomas Spencer Monson
More informationThe. Spiritual Gifts. The calling of a stake president is a sacred. BY ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles
BY ELDER NEIL L. ANDERSEN Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles The calling of a stake president is a sacred and spiritual experience. Under the direction of the First Presidency, General Authorities and
More informationVirab Minasyan, Armenia
COVENANTING TO OBEY AND FOLLOW HIM I was 60 years old, my pockets were empty, and my life was a disgrace. I believed that life was for my own enjoyment. I was lost, my eyes were closed, and then Jesus
More informationthat bring Defend yourself against Satan with these four tools.
FOUR TOOLS that bring Defend yourself against Satan with these four tools. Can you imagine trying to build a house without a hammer, a drill, or a saw? What about writing a school report without paper
More informationEVERY MEMBER A MISSIONARY D&C Lesson #41 by Ted L. Gibbons
EVERY MEMBER A MISSIONARY D&C Lesson #41 by Ted L. Gibbons INTRODUCTION: We are to gather Israel. One of the great purposes of our global missionary effort if to gather Israel from the nations of the earth.
More informationFocusing on the Lord s Work of Salvation
Focusing on the Lord s Work of Salvation In an interview with Church magazines, Julie B. Beck, Relief Society general president, shared her testimony of Relief Society. What is the role of Relief Society
More informationHow to Ask Questions That Invite Revelation
Religious Educator: Perspectives on the Restored Gospel Volume 5 Number 3 Article 10 9-1-2004 How to Ask Questions That Invite Revelation Alan R. Maynes Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/re
More informationEarly missionary work in the Hawaiian Islands
Early missionary work in the Hawaiian Islands 70 C H A P T E R 4 Strengthened by the Power of the Holy Ghost Make up your minds to live humbly and in such a way that you will always have the Spirit of
More informationMy dear brothers and sisters, graduates
I the Lord Am with You Ronald A. Rasband My dear brothers and sisters, graduates of the BYU summer commencement of 2013, what a magnificent sight you are to see you who have stayed up late, gotten up early,
More informationBecause of My Transgression My Eyes Are Opened
Lesson 4 Because of My Transgression My Eyes Are Opened Moses 4; 5:1 15; 6:48 62 Purpose To help each class member understand that the Fall was a necessary part of Heavenly Father s plan for us. Preparation
More informationThe Plan of Salvation
The Plan of Salvation Lesson 2: Lesson The Plan 1: The of Restoration Salvation Your Purpose As you teach, help people prepare for baptism and confirmation. Consider the qualifications for baptism taught
More informationPresident Joseph Fielding Smith shared his reason for calling Latterday Saints to repentance: I love the members of the Church.
President Joseph Fielding Smith shared his reason for calling Latterday Saints to repentance: I love the members of the Church. 82 C H A P T E R 5 Faith and Repentance What we need in the Church, as well
More informationCharge to President Henry B. Eyring
INAUGURAL ADDRESS Charge to President Henry B. Eyring Elder Marion G. Romney Quorum of the Twelve Apostles 10 December 1971 President Lee, members of the General Authorities and of the Board of Education,
More informationThe Power of Deliverance
The Power of Deliverance Henry B. Eyring am grateful for the honor and the opportunity to speak with you today. It is an I honor because you are precious children of our Heavenly Father. In the life before
More informationTestimony Outline - Mike Baird
Testimony Outline - Mike Baird Testimony comes from the Holy Ghost...1 Essential Components of a Testimony...1 Temple recommend Questions...2 Thoughts from Prophets & Apostles...2 Bearing a testimony in
More informationPresident Thomas S. Monson
President Thomas S. Monson Fun Fact- He served as a bishop when he was only 22 years old to a ward with over 1,000 people. President Henry B. Eyring Fun Fact- President Spencer W. Kimball is his uncle
More informationFocus on what you do well. With
Photograph by robert casey I love and am grateful for my young children, but I sometimes get distracted or discouraged by the practical details of raising a family and I struggle to remember what an important
More informationOpen Heavens. President Nelson: When my grandfather A. C. Nelson was a young THE THROUGH TEMPLE AND FAMILY HISTORY WORK
14 Liahona Many [spirits] are anxiously looking forth to their friends who are still living to administer for them in the temples, my deceased great-grandfather said when he appeared to my grandfather
More informationThe Great Plan of Happiness
Page 1 of 5 Ensign» 1993» November The Great Plan of Happiness Elder Dallin H. Oaks Of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Dallin H. Oaks, The Great Plan of Happiness, Ensign, Nov 1993, 72 Questions like,
More informationThe most powerful teaching moments may not always occur in the classroom
The Very Best Teaching: Reaching Out to Individuals john hilton iii John Hilton (johnhiltoniii@byu.edu) is an assistant professor of ancient scripture at BYU. The most powerful teaching moments may not
More informationKey Center Retention and Reactivation Program. Find and Rescue Mission. 8 Feb 2007
Key Center Retention and Reactivation Program Find and Rescue Mission 2010 8 Feb 2007 1 Table of Contents OBJECTIVE #1: ESTABLISH ZION IN THE HEART OF EACH MEMBER OF THE WARD... 3 OBJECTIVE #2: HELP MEMBERS
More informationOur Divinely Based Worth
Our Divinely Based Worth By Barbara Day Lockhart The measure of our lives is not in what we buy or how good we look, but in our divine heritage, our possibilities as children of God, and our application
More informationSCOUTING. When I was a mission president, the Vision of. Our efforts as Young Men advisers and Scout leaders can have eternal consequences.
Capturing the Vision of SCOUTING By David L. Beck Young Men General President Our efforts as Young Men advisers and Scout leaders can have eternal consequences. LEFT: PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT CASEY;
More informationSome of our most vivid and significant memories of living in the
THE Temple Gives US By Jean B. Bingham Relief Society General President Some of our most vivid and significant memories of living in the Midwestern United States as young parents are of yearly visits to
More informationMany years ago, my friend and her husband were doing
I want to go on record from my own experience that my life is rich and noble and infinitely better as a woman because of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Being awoman By Sharon Eubank Director of LDS Charities
More informationHow Do I Develop Christlike Attributes?
How Do I Develop Christlike Attributes? Consider This How can I develop attributes that will make me a more powerful and effective minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ? How will developing Christlike
More informationCovenant. The NEW AND EVERLASTING. As we understand and live according to the new and everlasting covenant, we will inherit eternal life.
24 L i a h o n a PHOTO ILLUSTRATION OF CONFIRMATION BY SARAH CARABINE JENSON; PHOTOGRAPH OF COUPLE IN FRONT OF LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA TEMPLE BY JERRY GARNS; BACKGROUND IMAGES FROM ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK As
More information